M. Kenka comments on the works of the well-known Belarusian writer, Uladzimir Karatkevich (Russian variant spelling – Vladimir Korotkevich) which are coming out in a new series of 25 tomes in Belarus under the guidance of professor Anatoly Vierabej. Kenka was assigned and already completed work on volumes 10 and 18. The first tome in this series came out in 2012 and to date 19 have been published. This is the second series of Karatkevich’s published works. The first was a 8-volume set which was produced from 1987 to 1991. The second series goes beyond acquainting readers with Karatkevich’s major works and writings. It includes subsequent findings by researchers who introduce new previously publicly unknown material written by Karatkevich, his comments and even drawings. Kenka states that volume 10 includes Karatkevich’s detective  novel Black Olshanski Castle which depicts life of people in Belarus both at the beginning of the 17^th century and this is juxtaposed with events that took place in Belarus from 1930-1940’s. The name of the castle is fictional but largely based on one that existed in the village of Halshany (located within today’s Grodno Oblast). Kenka insists that this story now requires contemporary explanation, particularly to younger readers who did not experience the realities of life in the USSR. They would find many words and phrases from that period puzzling. Persons, literary works, geographical names and historical events need further explanation for today’s readers to fully understand the novel. One other aspect is the matter of Karatkevich’s drawings. As a child he already displayed an innate talent for drawing for which he did not pursue formal training. Yet researchers have discovered around 400 drawings by Karatkevich in his notes and manuscripts. Many of them were obviously connected with persons mentioned in his works. Their sketched expressions give greater understanding of Karatkevich’s understanding concerning his heroes and himself. They display his own feelings and personality, states Kenka. Since the publication of the latest volumes, pictures drawn by Karatkevich have been discovered too late to be included in their appropriate spots. In spite of this, Karatkevich’s drawings, newly discovered writings and commentaries will grant greater understanding of the author as a notable Belarusian writer and artist.

Categories: Літаратура, Праект "РАЗАМ"